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3 Landing spots for Kyle Kuzma if Wizards opt to trade the forward

Could Kyle Kuzma be on the move?

By John Canady

Oct 26, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (33) dribbles the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) during the second quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
Oct 26, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (33) dribbles the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro (35) during the second quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images / Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
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The Washington Wizards chose to keep Kyle Kuzma on the team this offseason despite numerous teams inquiring about the forward’s services in the offseason.

However, after a slow start to the season, the noise around Kuzma’s fit with the team has picked up again. The veteran is averaging 17 points, seven rebounds and 3.7 assists on 32.7% shooting from field goal range, and 27.8% from three. 

At 29, Kuzma not only does he not fit the timeline in Washington, but his inefficient production is not helping his value for the Wizards if they do choose to offload him down the road. 

That said, these three teams could benefit from a Kyle Kuzma trade. 

Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings were a team that was heavily linked to Kuzma in the offseason. And with Sacramento making the move to land DeMar DeRozan, it shows how serious the Kings are to contending right now. A move for Kuzma could make sense for both sides with SAC having the pieces to facilitate the trade and Washington sending the forward to a contender.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have been another team reportedly monitoring Kuzma’s situation in Washington. Ironically, the versatile forward landed with the Wizards after the Lakers made a blockbuster move to acquire Russell Westbrook from Washington. 

Now, with a completely different roster structure and new coaching staff, Kuzma could be the piece to get the Lakers over the hump.

Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors nearly pulled off a trade to land Lauri Markkanen this offseason as they envisioned a small ball lineup to compete with the best offenses in the league. After missing out on Markkanen, murmurs hinted that Golden State could inquire about Kuzma. 

The fit would be ideal for both parties, and the Wizards could land some former lottery picks in a deal with Jonathan Kuminga’s contract expiring and Moses Moody looking for a bigger role.

Nonetheless, there’s no guarantee that the Wizards would move on from Kuzma, especially so soon. But his early season struggles have raised concerns with Washington banking on their veteran to lead the way for their young core.

In addition, Kuzma would likely have to agree to whatever team is looking to acquire him. And no, he doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his current deal, but he has built a solid relationship with Washington’s front office which resulted in the forward having the luxury to turn down a trade to the Mavericks at last year’s deadline.

With Kuzma’s future up in the air for now, it’s only fair to consider the potential possibilities if teams start calling as they’re expected to. Especially if a Kuzma deal makes sense for young players to get a bigger oppurtunity.

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